Asparagus - Mary Washington

25 Seeds

'Mary Washington' is one of the most popular heirloom asparagus varieties, producing long, tender green spears with excellent flavor. It is a perennial vegetable, meaning plants can continue producing for 15–20 years once established. Asparagus requires patience—the first full harvest usually begins 2–3 years after planting. In the Gulf region, it performs best when planted during the cool season.

Best Planting Time

• October to December (ideal)
• Can also be started during January in cooler Gulf areas.
• Avoid sowing during late spring and summer because of excessive heat.

Seed Preparation

• Soak seeds in lukewarm water for 24 hours before sowing to improve germination.
• Replace the water once if it cools significantly.
• Use fresh, high-quality seeds.

Soil Preparation

Asparagus prefers deep, fertile, loose, well-drained soil.

Recommended mix:

• 40% Sandy loam soil
• 30% Well-rotted compost
• 20% Coco peat
• 10% Perlite

Ideal soil pH:

• 6.5–7.5

Sowing Method

• Sow seeds in seed trays or small pots.
• Plant seeds 1–1.5 cm deep.
• Keep soil consistently moist during germination.
• Transplant seedlings after 10–12 weeks, when they are about 15–20 cm tall.
• Plant crowns or seedlings into permanent beds with deep, loose soil.

Temperature & Light

• Ideal germination temperature: 20–25°C
• Ideal growing temperature: 18–28°C
• Requires full sun (6–8 hours daily).
• In hot Gulf climates, light afternoon shade during the first summer helps young plants establish.

Watering

• Keep soil evenly moist during germination.
• Water deeply when the top 3–5 cm of soil becomes dry.
• Once established, asparagus is moderately drought tolerant but grows best with regular watering.
• Avoid waterlogging.

Germination Time

• 14–28 days

Plant Spacing

• 30–45 cm between plants.
• 120–150 cm between rows.

Harvest

• Do not harvest during the first year.
• Harvest lightly during the second year.
• Begin full harvesting in the third year.
• Cut spears when they reach 15–20 cm tall, before the tips begin opening.
• Continue harvesting for 6–8 weeks, then allow ferns to grow to strengthen the crowns for the next season.

Fertilization

• Mix plenty of compost into the bed before planting.
• Feed every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced fertilizer.
• After the harvest season, apply compost or well-rotted manure to replenish nutrients.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages fern growth at the expense of strong crowns.

Gulf Climate Tips

• Plant in the coolest part of the year.
• Choose a permanent location because asparagus dislikes being transplanted.
• Apply a thick layer of mulch to keep roots cool.
• Water early in the morning.
• Remove weeds regularly because asparagus competes poorly with them.
• Monitor for asparagus beetles (if present), aphids, spider mites, rust, and crown rot.
• Healthy plants can remain productive for 15–20 years with proper care.